In considering this case, the Committee noted: ‘The findings against Mr Brunelle are serious and span a considerable period of time and that his management of both patients fell seriously below the standards expected of a specialist orthodontist.’

It was determined that Mr Brunelle breached a provision within the GDC’s ‘Standards for dental professionals’ to make sure his patients were able to claim any compensation they may be entitled to by making sure he was protected against claims at all times, including past periods of practice.

The Committee said: ‘That a breach of the requirement for indemnity struck at the heart of the dental profession. Such behaviour could leave patients seriously disadvantaged. Mr Brunelle’s lack of indemnity was over three separate periods between 2005 and 2012, some lasting more than one year.

The Committee determined that Mr Brunelle’s behaviour damaged public confidence in dental professionals.’

In the circumstances, the Committee concluded that the only appropriate and proportionate sanction is erasure.

Unless Mr Brunelle, who was immediately suspended, exercises his right of appeal, his name will be struck off the register in 28 days’ time.